My name is Eli Ssenyange, currently a senior at Notre Dame High School–West Haven,CT and I have committed to Stonehill College, where I plan to major in Biology. As a high honors student and a prospective first-generation college graduate in my immediate family, my education represents more than a personal milestone; it is an opportunity to create meaningful change within my family and inspire my two younger brothers to follow in my footsteps. I have worked diligently throughout my academic career to maintain strong performance, and I am determined to carry that same discipline and commitment into my college experience.
In 2018, I immigrated to the United States from Uganda, a transition that brought significant challenges. Adjusting to a new education system, culture, and social environment was not easy. I had to quickly adapt to differences in language usage, classroom expectations, and teaching styles, while navigating the uncertainty of starting over in a new country. There were moments of isolation and pressure as I worked to find my place and prove myself academically. However, these experiences strengthened my resilience, independence, and determination to succeed, pushing me to remain focused on my long-term goals despite obstacles.
My grandmother, Theresa Rugambwa, was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 73, my family faced the painful reality of a disease that gradually takes away a person’s physical abilities. Watching someone who had always been strong and independent lose mobility and communication was heartbreaking. Despite this, she remained mentally strong and continued to encourage our family with unwavering courage.
During my grandmother’s struggle with ALS, my mother, who is the main breadwinner of our family, had to take time off work for months to care for her. This significantly reduced our family income and contributed to ongoing financial struggles. Despite these challenges, the experience has shown me the power of connection, perseverance, and purpose. It has also reshaped how I view science—not just as a subject, but as a tool to understand and confront diseases that impact families like mine. My grandmother’s resilience continues to drive my desire to pursue a career in science and contribute to research that could improve or save lives. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to raise awareness about ALS among my peers, and I have been surprised by how many people are learning about the disease through the conversations I start.
If awarded this scholarship, I will use it to support my transition into college by covering essential academic materials and living expenses. This support would allow me to fully dedicate myself to my studies without the financial pressure of working long hours to meet basic needs. With that stability, I can focus on building a strong academic foundation, engaging in research opportunities, and making the most of everything college has to offer.
My long-term goal is to pursue a career as a scientist, contributing to both my community and society. Through my studies in Biology, I aim to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to address real-world challenges through innovation, leadership, and service. I am particularly interested in using science to improve lives and expand access to resources in underserved communities.
I believe education is a powerful tool that fosters critical thinking, resilience, and the ability to create lasting change. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden on my family but also allow me to pursue my goals with greater focus and confidence. Ultimately, it would bring me one step closer to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
I sincerely appreciate your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
Eli Ssenyange